Key Takeaways
- Memphis offers accredited criminal justice degrees at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels, with both on-campus and online options.
- The University of Memphis and Christian Brothers University lead for four-year and graduate programs, while Southwest Tennessee Community College offers a strong transfer pathway.
- Tennessee criminal justice careers show steady demand, with competitive salaries for police officers, probation officers, and detectives.
- Choosing the right program depends on your career goal: law enforcement, federal service, forensic analysis, corrections, or graduate study.
- Cost, accreditation, internship access, and local agency partnerships are critical decision factors.
Why Study Criminal Justice in Memphis?
Memphis is home to major law enforcement, judicial, and corrections institutions, including the Memphis Police Department, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Tennessee Department of Correction, and federal courts. This creates strong internship pipelines and career networking opportunities for students.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers such as police officers, probation officers, and detectives continue to show stable demand. In Tennessee, police officers earn a mean annual wage above $57,000, while detectives and criminal investigators often exceed $70,000 depending on experience and assignment.
For students seeking regional employment, Memphis provides access to urban, county, state, and federal agencies, making it one of the top locations in West Tennessee to pursue a criminal justice degree.
Top Criminal Justice Programs in Memphis, Tennessee
SchoolDegree LevelsFormatAccreditationBest ForUniversity of MemphisBA, MAOn-campus, Select OnlineSACSCOCResearch, federal careers, grad studyChristian Brothers UniversityBSOn-campusSACSCOCSmall class sizes, leadership focusSouthwest Tennessee Community CollegeAAS, ASOn-campus, HybridSACSCOCAffordable transfer pathwayBethel University (Memphis Campus)BSOnline, Adult-focusedSACSCOCWorking professionals
Program Breakdowns and What Sets Them Apart
University of Memphis
The University of Memphis offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice. It is widely recognized for faculty research in policing, corrections, juvenile justice, and public policy.
Notable advantages:
- Internships with local law enforcement and courts
- Undergraduate research opportunities
- Preparation for graduate school, law school, or federal service
This program is best suited for students aiming for leadership, investigative roles, or advanced degrees.
Christian Brothers University
Christian Brothers University offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with smaller class sizes and personalized faculty interaction.
Program strengths:
- Ethics and leadership emphasis
- Strong advising support
- Internship integration within Memphis agencies
This option works well for students who value mentorship and structured academic guidance.
Southwest Tennessee Community College
Southwest Tennessee Community College offers Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science degrees in Criminal Justice.
Why it stands out:
- Lower tuition compared to four-year universities
- Transfer pathways to the University of Memphis
- Flexible scheduling for working students
This is an excellent entry point for students planning to transfer into a bachelor’s program while minimizing debt.
Bethel University Memphis
Bethel University offers adult-focused bachelor’s programs, including flexible online criminal justice education.
This option is ideal for active law enforcement officers, military personnel, or professionals returning to school.
Tuition and Financial Aid Considerations
Tuition varies significantly by institution and residency status. Community college programs are typically the most affordable option. Public universities offer lower in-state tuition, while private institutions charge higher rates but may provide institutional scholarships.
Students should complete the FAFSA at StudentAid.gov to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study. Tennessee residents may qualify for the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship.
When comparing costs, calculate the full expense including fees, books, and commuting. Also factor in internship availability, as paid internships can offset educational costs.
Career Pathways in Memphis and Tennessee
Law Enforcement
Police officers and deputies often begin with academy training and may pursue a degree for promotion. A bachelor’s degree improves competitiveness for specialized units.
Corrections and Probation
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work within county and state agencies. A bachelor’s degree is typically required.
Federal Agencies
Students targeting agencies such as FBI, DEA, or ATF benefit from strong academic performance and research experience. The U.S. Department of Justice outlines federal qualification standards.
Forensic and Analytical Roles
Students interested in forensic investigation should supplement criminal justice coursework with forensic science, psychology, or data analysis electives.
Choosing the Right Program for Your Career Goals
If You Want to Become a Police Officer
An associate degree may be sufficient for entry-level roles, but a bachelor’s degree improves promotion prospects. Look for internship connections with Memphis PD.
If You Plan to Attend Law School
Select a research-oriented bachelor’s program such as the University of Memphis. Maintain a high GPA and pursue internships in courts or legal offices.
If You Are a Working Adult
Choose a flexible or online format such as those offered by Bethel University or hybrid community college programs.
If You Want Minimal Debt
Start at Southwest Tennessee Community College and transfer after completing core coursework.
Admissions Requirements Overview
While specific criteria vary, most Memphis-area programs require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA (varies by school)
- SAT or ACT scores for some bachelor’s programs
- Application fee and transcripts
Graduate programs typically require a bachelor’s degree, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
What Makes a Criminal Justice Program “Best”?
The strongest programs share five characteristics:
- Regional accreditation through SACSCOC
- Internship placement support
- Experienced faculty with law enforcement or research backgrounds
- Strong transfer or graduate pathways
- Transparent career outcomes data
Programs connected to active agencies and offering applied learning opportunities provide students with a competitive edge in hiring.
Decision Checklist Before You Enroll
- Is the program accredited?
- Does it align with your intended career path?
- Are internships guaranteed or optional?
- What is the graduation rate?
- What is the total estimated cost?
Carefully compare these factors before committing to a school. The best criminal justice degree in Memphis is not simply the most popular. It is the one that aligns with your long-term professional goals, budget, and lifestyle needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Criminal Justice Degrees in Memphis
What criminal justice degrees can you earn in Memphis?
In Memphis, you can earn associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in criminal justice or criminology. Schools such as the University of Memphis, Christian Brothers University, Southwest Tennessee Community College, and Bethel University offer options ranging from on-campus to fully online formats, so you can match the program to your schedule and career plans.
Is a criminal justice degree required to become a police officer in Tennessee?
A degree is not always required for entry-level police work in Tennessee, but many departments prefer or reward college education. A criminal justice associate or bachelor’s degree can help you stand out for hiring and promotion. You can review statewide law enforcement standards through the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance and compare pay data using the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How much can you earn with a criminal justice career in Memphis or Tennessee?
Pay depends on your role, experience, and agency. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many police officers in Tennessee earn around the mid-$50,000s on average, and detectives and criminal investigators often earn over $70,000 with experience. You can compare detailed wage data for Tennessee justice careers on the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics pages.
How do you choose between community college and a four-year university in Memphis?
If you want to lower costs and then transfer, starting at Southwest Tennessee Community College can be a good option. If you plan to go straight into research, federal work, or law school, you may choose a four-year program at the University of Memphis or Christian Brothers University. Compare tuition, transfer pathways, and outcomes, and use tools like the Federal Student Aid website to see how financial aid may change your total cost.
Can you study criminal justice online while working full-time?
Yes. Bethel University’s Memphis programs and some options at the University of Memphis and Southwest Tennessee Community College offer online or hybrid criminal justice courses designed for working adults. You can confirm current online offerings, credit transfer rules, and any in-person internship or practicum requirements on each school’s official site or catalog before you apply.
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